This outfitter in New Caledonia has been guiding successful hunts on this small South Pacific island for decades, with some of the most affordable pricing available, and without any artificial markups or hidden fees. He consistently takes some of the island’s largest trophies, and the 2023 season was no exception! All past Hunt Nation clients have been successful on his hunt with trophies ranging from the low 30’s up to 39” in length, and many with exceptional mass. Additionally, a number of our clients have taken multiple trophies on a single hunt. Rusa (Java) deer were introduced to this French territory more than 100 years ago. Today, they thrive in this tropical environment, with population estimates at more than a quarter million deer.
The Hunt
These five-day packages are nearly all-inclusive from pickup on Mondays to return drop offs on Fridays. Additionally, each hunting week are exclusive to only one hunter or one small group at a time, and groups of two still retain 1×1 guiding each day. All hunts are spot and stalk with 4wd vehicle access around the island to reach various free range hunting areas, some of which are more than 10,000 acres in size. This is not a physically demanding hunt, however hunters should expect to be up before dark, prepared to spend several hours in the field at a time while walking. It is common to see several hundred deer per day, allowing hunters to be very selective with what they chose to harvest. Hunters will return to camp during the mid-day with a return to the field in the evenings when activity resumes. Bow hunters are welcome and will enjoy a special archery-only area.
Season
Rusa deer in New Caledonia are best hunted during the rut, with a peak season from late July through September. Most years, August and September will produce the highest number of deer sightings, with August being the single most popular month. The hunting remains strong into September, with a higher number of stags found with damaged hides as the season comes to an end. Very importantly, our outfitter is a resident of New Caledonia. Not only does he participate in year-round game management, but he can also arrange hunts outside of the peak hunting season for those who may request an early season opportunity.
Getting Here
Hunters must fly to Noumea, New Caledonia (airport code NOU). Generally speaking, Air New Zealand, with a connection in Auckland, offers the most consistent and reliable flight options, particularly for those who are travelling with firearms. All hunts begin on Mondays and conclude on Fridays. We recommend arriving a day or two prior to the start date of your hunt. Beachfront hotels area very affordable and offer a chance to recover from jet lag. At a minimum, plan to depart the following Saturday after you have been taken from the hunting area back to Noumea at the end of the week. Connections to other popular South Pacific islands including Tahiti and Fiji are easily accessed for those who want an extended vacation beyond the hunt itself.
Accommodations
Rustic yet comfortable farm houses, with electricity, hot water and flushing toilets, serve as camp for the duration of the trip. Food is a delicious mixture of French and local New Caledonian cuisine. Most are reached with a short one to two-hour car ride from the city.
Rifle Import
Although we recommend clients take advantage of the free rifle rental included with our packages, our outfitting partner can obtain weapon import permits for any client that prefers to take their own bolt-action hunting rifle. There is no extra cost for this import permit, however a minimum of three months’ notice must be given.
Trophy Export
Our outfitter can obtain all necessary export documents in a very timely manner, allowing clients the opportunity to export trophies as checked luggage. For anyone who does not wish to take trophies with them, trophy shipping can be arranged for approximately $500. .
Additional Activities
New Caledonia is a great destination for those who would like to take advantage of world-class snorkeling or scuba diving as the island offers the world’s second largest lagoon and a coral reef system. Inshore and off shore big game fishing as well as touring can also be arranged either before or after a hunt.
Enjoy COMPLIMENTARY Tukey and Pig Hunting!
2024/2025 Pricing:
Package Including One (1) Trophy-Class Rusa Deer: $4,600
Each additional trophy Rusa deer: $1,320
Non-trophy/management Rusa deer: $750
Observers: $1,320
Packages include: Airport reception and all ground transfers during the hunt; all meals and accommodations during the hunt; 1×1 guiding services; rifle rental or rifle import permit; trophy fee for the first trophy Rusa deer; trophy preparation and veterinary certificate for export as checked luggage; plus, complimentary wild pig and turkey hunting, if time allows (with the purchase of a small game license).
Packages do not include: commercial flights to/from Noumea, New Caledonia; alcoholic beverages; any optional touring activities; any hotels and meals before or after the hunt; optional trophy shipping and expediting.
